In a bid to streamline its information dissemination process, the Delta State Government has emphasized the exclusive authority of designated officials to comment on sensitive policy issues. This directive aims to prevent unauthorized statements from public officers that could lead to unintended commitments by the government.
The clarification was made by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, the Delta State Commissioner for Information, during a meeting with members of the Asaba Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists. Dr. Osuoza highlighted that only the Commissioner for Information and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor were authorized to make definitive statements regarding the state government’s policy direction and the governor’s activities, respectively.
Dr. Osuoza assured journalists of a collaborative partnership but urged them to maintain balanced reporting, emphasizing the importance of factual accuracy over personal biases in their reports. He also expressed concern over the under-reporting of the achievements of the Oborevwori administration and pledged to facilitate journalists in the state to effectively publicize the gains of the MORE agenda.
Chairman of the Asaba Correspondents Chapel, Comrade Ifeanyi Olannye, praised Governor Oborevwori for appointing Dr. Osuoza as Commissioner for Information. He highlighted the positive relationship the chapel has had with the ministry in the past and expressed optimism for its continuation.
Comrade Olannye extended an invitation to the commissioner to participate in the chapel’s “Know Your Publics” (KYP) programme, aimed at fostering a better understanding between journalists and government officials. He also raised some challenges faced by journalists, including the need for training opportunities and reliable electricity supply at the chapel office, which the commissioner promised to address.
